Lesson plans, classroom materials, and teaching strategies on the Global Impact of Computing. Portal to our collection of creative, engaging resources to support teachers of AP Computer Science Principles, and others who want to bring social impact into high school CS classrooms.

Elon Musk on Mission to Link Human Brains With Computers in Four Years: Report

Elon Musk on Mission to Link Human Brains With Computers in Four Years: Report

Published By: MSN/Reuters, 4/22/2017

Summary

Neuralink Corporation hopes to develop a micron-sized device that could connect the human brain and a machine interface. The initial goal is to help those with severe brain injuries, then to explore use by people without disabilities. For example, if each person had a device, then two people could (theoretically) communicate concepts brain-to-brain. The long-term goal is to integrate human brains and artificial intelligence (AI), so humans will not be left behind (see Alternative Article below).

Content Advisory

The linked articles are usable in any classroom, but all refer or link to a post on the Wait But Why blog (which broke the story) that contains taboo language and refers to sex and pornography.

Extended Discussion Questions

If you had a brain injury, would you want a device like this implanted into your brain? Why or why not?

What questions or concerns might you have?

Elon Musk suggests that widespread use of these devices would enable a type of communication equivalent to telepathy.

What could be some benefits if this turns out to be possible?

What could be some potential dangers or drawbacks?

If human and machine intelligences could merge, what ethical or moral concerns might arise?

What if this gave certain people superhuman capabilities?

Who do you think would have access to this technology first, and what advantages might that give them?

Musk is quoted as saying that “humans will need to implant ‘neural laces’ in their brains to keep up” with the sophistication of AI.

Do you agree with Musk’s assessment of how smart AI will get? Why or why not?

If so, do you think wiring up our brains is a necessary or effective response? Why or why not?

Alternative Article

“A Quick Guide to Elon Musk’s New Brain-Implant Company, Neuralink”
Published By: Los Angeles Times, 4/21/2017 || View the Article
Relates the story to Musk’s long-term goal of ensuring that AI is beneficial to humanity (but covers even less of the technical detail).